1.
The 8th Grade Reading TAKS is an assesment of which of the following?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
The 8th Grade Reading TAKS assesses students' abilities in reading comprehension, vocabulary, literary understanding, and figurative understanding. This means that the test evaluates their skills in understanding and analyzing written texts, their knowledge of words and their meanings, their understanding of literary elements and techniques, and their ability to interpret and analyze figurative language. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above" as the assessment covers all these areas.
2.
Word Parts added to the beginning of a word.
Correct Answer
Prefixes
Prefix
Explanation
Prefixes are word parts that are added to the beginning of a word to modify its meaning. They can change the word's tense, create a new word, or give it a negative or positive connotation. In this case, the word "prefixes" is the plural form of the word "prefix", which refers to the word parts added to the beginning of a word. Therefore, both "prefixes" and "prefix" accurately describe the word parts added to the beginning of a word.
3.
Word parts added to the end of a word
Correct Answer
suffixes
suffix
Explanation
Word parts added to the end of a word are called suffixes. A suffix is a group of letters that is added to the end of a word to change its meaning or function. In this case, both "suffixes" and "suffix" are correct answers as they both refer to word parts added to the end of a word.
4.
A comparison that uses like or as.
Correct Answer
simile
Explanation
A simile is a figure of speech that compares two different things using the words "like" or "as". It helps to create vivid imagery and enhance the reader's understanding by drawing a parallel between two seemingly unrelated objects or ideas. In this type of comparison, the similarities between the two things are highlighted, allowing the reader to visualize and comprehend the intended meaning more effectively.
5.
A comparison in which an object or person is described as being something else.
Correct Answer
metaphor
Explanation
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two things by stating that one thing is another thing. It is a form of figurative language that helps create vivid imagery and convey complex ideas in a concise and impactful way. In a metaphor, the comparison is implied rather than explicitly stated, allowing the reader or listener to make connections and understand the intended meaning.
6.
Similar to a simile but the writer creates a comparison that is life learning.
Correct Answer
analogy
Explanation
An analogy is a figure of speech that compares two things that are similar in some way, but the writer goes beyond a simple comparison and creates a deeper connection that helps the reader understand a concept or idea. In this case, the writer is using an analogy to create a comparison that is related to life learning, suggesting that the comparison being made is not just similar, but also has a significant lesson or insight that can be applied to life.
7.
When an animal or inanimate object is given human traits.
Correct Answer
personification
Explanation
Personification is a figure of speech in which human characteristics or qualities are attributed to non-human entities, such as animals or inanimate objects. This literary device helps to create vivid and imaginative descriptions by giving life and personality to these entities. By personifying them, the writer or speaker humanizes these non-human entities, making them relatable and easier for the audience to understand or connect with. Therefore, the given answer, personification, accurately describes the concept of giving human traits to animals or inanimate objects.
8.
An expression that means something entirely different than its literal meaning.
Correct Answer
idiom
Explanation
An idiom is an expression that conveys a figurative or metaphorical meaning that is different from its literal interpretation. Idioms are commonly used in everyday language and often have cultural or regional significance. They add color and depth to communication by allowing speakers to convey complex ideas or emotions in a concise and familiar way. Therefore, the given answer "idiom" accurately describes an expression that carries a meaning beyond its literal interpretation.
9.
The feelings or emotions one connects to a word.
Correct Answer
connotation
Explanation
Connotation refers to the feelings or emotions that are associated with a word. It goes beyond the literal meaning of a word and includes the cultural, social, and personal associations that people have with it. For example, the word "home" may have positive connotations of comfort and security for many people. Understanding the connotation of a word is important in effective communication as it helps convey the intended message and evoke the desired emotional response.
10.
The overriding concept of a text.
Correct Answer
main idea
Explanation
The main idea refers to the central or most important concept or theme in a text. It is the overarching message or point that the author is trying to convey to the reader. The main idea provides a focus and direction for the entire text, guiding the reader's understanding and interpretation of the information presented. It is essential in understanding the purpose and significance of the text as a whole.
11.
The pieces of information that support or are related to the main idea.
Correct Answer
details
Explanation
The term "details" refers to the specific pieces of information that provide support or are directly related to the main idea. These details help to elaborate and provide evidence for the main idea, allowing for a deeper understanding of the topic. By including relevant details, the main idea becomes clearer and more convincing.
12.
The main ideas, events, or major details from the passage
Correct Answer
summary
best summary
summarize
Explanation
The correct answer for this question is "summary, best summary, summarize". These terms all relate to the main ideas, events, or major details from a passage. A summary is a concise overview of the most important points in a text, while summarizing is the act of condensing information into a shorter form. "Best summary" suggests that there may be multiple ways to summarize a passage, but one is considered the most effective or accurate. Therefore, these terms all pertain to the process of capturing the key elements of a text in a succinct manner.
13.
A person, animal, or mythical creature in the story who perform the action of the story.
Correct Answer
characters
character
Explanation
The correct answer is "characters" or "character" because in a story, a character refers to a person, animal, or mythical creature who performs the actions of the story. They are the individuals who drive the plot and engage the readers or audience in the narrative. Characters can be developed with unique traits, personalities, and motivations, and they play a crucial role in advancing the storyline and creating emotional connections with the audience.
14.
The series of events that take place.
Correct Answer
plot
Explanation
The term "plot" refers to the sequence of events that occur in a story or narrative. It encompasses the main events, conflicts, and resolution that drive the storyline forward. The plot is essential for creating a cohesive and engaging narrative, as it provides structure and purpose to the events that unfold. It helps to develop the characters, build suspense, and convey the central theme or message of the story. Without a well-developed plot, a story may lack direction and fail to captivate the audience.
15.
The problem that arises within the story.
Correct Answer
conflict
problem
Explanation
The correct answer is conflict. Conflict refers to the struggle or disagreement between two or more opposing forces in a story. It creates tension and drives the plot forward. A problem, on the other hand, is a specific issue or challenge that needs to be resolved. In the context of the given question, conflict can be seen as a broader term encompassing various problems that arise within the story.
16.
The way the conflict or problem is solved.
Correct Answer
resolution
Explanation
Resolution refers to the way in which a conflict or problem is solved. It is the outcome or conclusion that is reached after addressing the issue at hand. In the context of this question, the correct answer "resolution" accurately describes the process of finding a solution or reaching a decision to resolve a conflict or problem.
17.
When and where the story takes place.
Correct Answer
setting
18.
When a write interrupts the current plot to tell of something that happened before.
Correct Answer
flashback
Explanation
A flashback is a narrative technique where the story temporarily shifts to a previous event or time period. It interrupts the current plot to provide background information, insight into a character's past, or to explain certain actions or motivations. Flashbacks are commonly used in literature, film, and television to add depth and context to the story. They allow the audience to understand the present events better by providing glimpses into the past.
19.
Clues or hints that help the reader determine what will happen later in the story.
Correct Answer
foreshadow
foreshadowing
Explanation
Foreshadowing refers to the use of clues or hints in a story that suggest what will happen later on. It is a literary technique used by authors to create suspense and build anticipation in the reader. By providing subtle indications of future events, foreshadowing allows the reader to make predictions and engage more deeply with the story. It adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it more compelling and satisfying.
20.
An object used to represent something else.
Correct Answer
symbolism
symbol
Explanation
Symbolism refers to the use of symbols, which are objects used to represent something else. A symbol is a specific type of object that carries a deeper meaning or represents an abstract concept. In literature, art, and other forms of expression, symbolism is often used to convey ideas, emotions, or themes indirectly, allowing for a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the subject matter. Therefore, both symbolism and symbol are correct answers as they accurately describe the concept of using objects to represent something else.
21.
When something happens in a way that is unexpected or that is not typical.
Correct Answer
irony
Explanation
Irony refers to a situation where something occurs in a manner that is unexpected or contrary to what is typically anticipated. It involves a contrast between what is expected and what actually happens, often resulting in a humorous or sarcastic effect. Irony can be found in various forms such as verbal irony, where words express the opposite of their literal meaning, or situational irony, where the outcome is different from what is expected. Overall, irony adds depth and complexity to narratives and is used to convey a deeper meaning or create a sense of surprise for the audience.
22.
Presenting similarities and differences between two ideas, people, or events
Correct Answer
compare and contrast
Explanation
The answer "compare and contrast" accurately describes the act of presenting similarities and differences between two ideas, people, or events. When comparing, one examines the similarities between the two subjects, highlighting shared characteristics or qualities. On the other hand, when contrasting, one focuses on the differences, emphasizing the distinct features or aspects that set the subjects apart. By engaging in a compare and contrast analysis, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the subjects being compared and contrasted, identifying both commonalities and disparities.
23.
Description of events in a time order.
Correct Answer
chronological order
Explanation
The term "chronological order" refers to the arrangement of events or information in the order in which they occurred in time. In this context, the given description of events in a time order suggests that they are presented in a sequence based on their chronological occurrence. This means that the events are organized in a linear fashion, starting from the earliest event and progressing to the most recent one. The use of chronological order helps provide a clear and logical structure to the narrative, allowing readers to easily follow the progression of events.
24.
The overall message, moral, lesson, or idea of a story.
Correct Answer
theme
Explanation
The term "theme" refers to the overall message, moral, lesson, or idea that is conveyed in a story. It is the central idea or concept that the author wants to communicate to the reader. Themes can be universal and applicable to various situations and cultures, and they often explore deeper meanings and truths about human nature or society. In literature, identifying the theme helps readers gain a deeper understanding of the story and its underlying messages.
25.
The author's reason for writing a story usually to persuade, inform, or entertain.
Correct Answer
author's purpose
authors purpose
Explanation
The author's purpose refers to the reason why the author has written a story, which is usually to persuade, inform, or entertain. It is important to understand the author's purpose as it helps readers to analyze and interpret the text effectively. By identifying the author's purpose, readers can better understand the intended message or goal of the story and engage with it more critically.
26.
How an author views the topic or their point of view of their story.
Correct Answer
author's perspective
Explanation
The correct answer is "author's perspective." This refers to how an author perceives and presents a particular topic or story. It encompasses their opinions, beliefs, and attitudes, which shape the way they write and convey their ideas. Understanding the author's perspective is essential for analyzing and interpreting their work accurately.
27.
How an author chooses to write his story.
Correct Answer
style
Explanation
The term "style" refers to the specific way in which an author chooses to write their story. It encompasses various elements such as the author's choice of vocabulary, sentence structure, tone, and use of literary devices. The author's style can greatly impact the overall reading experience and can vary widely from one writer to another. It is an essential aspect of storytelling as it helps convey the author's unique voice and perspective.
28.
The writer's attitude.
Correct Answer
tone
Explanation
The question is asking for an explanation of the concept of "tone" in relation to the writer's attitude. Tone refers to the writer's attitude or feelings towards the subject matter or audience, which is reflected in the style, language, and overall mood of the writing. It helps to convey the writer's emotions, perspective, and intention behind the words chosen.
29.
The feeling created by reading a story
Correct Answer
mood
Explanation
Mood refers to the emotional atmosphere or feeling that is created by reading a story. It is the overall tone or vibe that the reader experiences while engaging with the narrative. The mood can be influenced by various elements such as the setting, language, and tone of the story. It sets the emotional backdrop for the reader and helps to establish the overall ambiance and atmosphere of the narrative.
30.
When a reader makes a decision based on the information they know and the information they gather from a text.
Correct Answer
Drawing Conclusions
Making Inferences
Making Predictions
Explanation
The given answer options, Drawing Conclusions, Making Inferences, and Making Predictions, all involve the process of using information from a text to make a decision or form a judgment. When a reader draws a conclusion, they are making a decision or forming an opinion based on the information they have gathered. Making inferences involves using clues and evidence from the text to make an educated guess or assumption. Making predictions also requires using information from the text to make an educated guess about what might happen in the future. Therefore, all three answer options are applicable to the given explanation.